By Carla Adeline Via
Heritage building Silliman Hall will be “reserved solely for institutional events,” including those directly organized by university offices and aligns with its mission, vision, and core programs, according to the Office of Media and Public Affairs (OMPA).
OMPA Chief Dr. Warlito Caturay Jr. said the Facilities Management and Administrative Services Office is conducting an assessment to explore a “more judicious use” of Silliman Hall and preserve its structural integrity.
“The results of this assessment will inform the development of more comprehensive guidelines on the use of the building, in consultation with relevant stakeholders,” he explained.
Caturay furthered that the assessment reviews the building’s usage history, past maintenance procedures, and current structural condition.
On the matter, Medical Technology Society Governor Kyle Peter Josh Deluvio shared that their general assembly held last July 9 was nearly cancelled a few hours before it commenced.
“We were told that the memorandum was released a week before the actual assembly. However, we were only actually informed of the issue on the day of the event,” he revealed.
However, Caturay clarified that there has been no such circulation of the said memorandum as OMPA has yet to receive a copy of it.
Deluvio also raised his concerns on the accessibility of campus venues, stating that the “alleged policy may lessen spaces” for student organizations to conduct activities.
“There are not many spaces in the university that could cater to a population that is not that big nor small,” he said, referring to Silliman Hall
The century-old building, which was built in 1903, has previously served as the venue for academic lectures, college assemblies, book launches, and cultural performances.
As of writing, the Office of the President has yet to respond to the Weekly Sillimanian’s inquiry on the policy.
This is a developing story.
